Annual Brookings fish derby starts Friday

The Labor Day Weekend event is open to fishermen of all ages, like this boy who did well last year. The Pilot/Jef Hatch

The 10th annual Slam’n Salmon Ocean Derby starts Friday and continues through Sunday at the Port of Brookings Harbor, offering $16,000 in cash and prizes to successful fishermen.

The event brings fishermen from around the country to ply the salmon-rich waters around Brookings with their lines.

“There are people registered from North Dakota and New York. There are people coming from the East Coast,” said Jean Day, events coordinator for the Port.

More than 300 people had registered for the event as of Tuesday and Day expects that number to double before the contest gets underway on Friday morning. The port expects several thousand visitors at the derby each day.

Registration for the event begins at 11 a.m. Thursday, when fishers can pick up their badges and tickets to the salmon barbecue. Fishing commences when the sun comes up on Friday and continues throughout the weekend.

Registration for the derby costs $50 and includes a ticket for the salmon barbecue on Sunday at 3 p.m. There will only be 800 barbecue meals available to the public.

People who are not fishing but want a barbecue meal are encouraged to purchase the $10 ticket early.

Fifty vendors will be on the port boardwalk at 10 a.m. on Friday, and will be selling their wares throughout the weekend.

The grand prize to the fisherman who bags the biggest Chinook is $6,000 in cash as well as a diamond and gold ring from Brookings’ Harbrook Jewelers. Other prizes and cash will be awarded throughout the event, worth more than $16,000.

Ken Bryan at Wild Rivers Motor Lodge in Brookings, says while many are coming for the Slam’n Salmon Fishing Derby this weekend, it is also Labor Day weekend, with many coming to Brookings to enjoy the last weekend in the summer.

“It’s a nice event to have in town and it certainly brings a lot of business,” Bryan said.

While there were still vacancies on Friday and Sunday night, Bryan said Saturday night at his motel is full.

The Best Western Plus Beachfront Inn is full this weekend, reporting no vacancies.

Apparel celebrating the 10th anniversary of the event will be available for sale, with Day saying the gear is expected to go quickly.

Those wishing to participate can still register at the port office or at www.slamnsalmon.com.